Premier League preview: Tottenham v Everton

News of Gareth Bale's potentially season-ending ankle injury does not bode well for Spurs ahead of Everton's visit to White Hart Lane.

Tottenham manager Andre Villas-Boas was left to rue the flying winger's injury in the dying stages of Spurs' 2-2 draw with Basel in the Europa League quarter-finals on Thursday.

"Gareth has rolled over his ankle and we still need to get assessment that we can only have on Friday," Villas-Boas said.

"But it shouldn't be as bad as it looks in the images. He has torn that ligament before and there's nothing to tear now."

Bale has performed astonishingly well this season with 22 goals in all competitions, including another in a crucial 2-1 win over Swansea last Saturday, and is perhaps more important to his side than any other player in the Premier League.

Spurs were below par against Basel but can take another step to ensuring their place in next season's Champions League with a win against David Moyes' in-form side.

Tottenham are two points clear of Chelsea in third, four points ahead of north London rivals Arsenal and six clear of Everton - but all three foes have played a game less.

Everton, who have won their past three Premier League games, will back themselves to capitalise on a weary Tottenham side, who will likely be without front trio Bale, Aaron Lennon and Jermain Defoe.

Everton are sweating on the fitness of Kevin Mirallas (groin), who scored the winner against Stoke last Saturday following a searing run nearly the length of the pitch in the build-up.

A win for David Moyes' side would firm their claims for a spot in the top four and provide a massive boost for the likes of Chelsea and Arsenal.